Sara Davies MBE has been acknowledged with an international industry award at the Association For Creative Industries’ Industry Awards (AFCI).

The founder of Crafter’s Companion was presented with the Industry Achievement Award, which recognises individuals within the sector that have done great things for the community, industry and humanity.

She was acknowledged with the accolade at international trade show, Creativation+ featuring Art Materials World, which takes place virtually from 15-19 March.

Based in the US, AFCI is the premier trade association for the global creative arts products industries. As an organisation, AFCI strives to deliver innovative high value services as it supports its members who provide products and services to educate, entertain and inspire creative consumers.

In addition to the Industry Achievement Award, AFCI’s awards recognises individuals with its Special Recognition Awards, Hall of Fame Award, Brick and Mortar Retail Award, Meriorious Award of Honor and Emerging Leaders Awards, which recognises excellence in industry service and philanthropy.

Sara Davies “When I started Crafter’s Companion 15 years ago, I knew that I wanted to take the business to the US and beyond, and that journey started for me with the Craft and Hobby Association (CHA), known today known as AFCI, so to receive this accolade 15 years later means so much to me.

“Speaking from personal experience, when you’re trying to grow a business and make a name for yourself in the industry, organisations that provide resources and networks of support are so important and being able to connect with like-minded people is invaluable.

“I was honoured to serve on the board of CHA for two consecutive terms before I had my family, and in that time, I also founded the UK chapter of the association and became our founding board chair there. The work that CHA then, and AFCI now do in our industry is still very close to my heart, and I’m extremely proud and grateful to receive this award.”